15th Annual Ryan’s Ride set for June 10, 2018; Burlingame Criterium on Hiatus due to Road Construction; Alternative Brisbane Criterium on July 15th

BURLINGAME, Calif., May 20, 2018 – Ryan’s Ride has long been considered part of the great fabric of Peninsula summer traditions. The ritual continues in 2018 with over 500 youth expected to hop on their bikes and trikes for the 15th consecutive year at the Ryan Phua Memorial Kids’ Ride on Sunday, June 10.

“It’s our 15th year, and our community has raised nearly $825,000 for Bay Area cancer programs and Burlingame schools through Ryan’s Ride,” said Michele Phua, mother of Ryan and Matthew, Ryan’s twin. “It speaks to the heart and soul of the kids and families, and it’s so gratifying that Ryan’s Ride has become a tradition the community looks forward to each year.”

Each year since 2004, Ryan’s Ride has been held the same day as the Burlingame Criterium, another long-standing Peninsula tradition featuring adult cycling through the streets of downtown Burlingame. However, due to extensive city road construction this spring and summer, the Criterium will not be held in 2018. Alternatively, adult racers can turn to the Brisbane Criterium, which will be held July 15. However, Ryan’s Ride will proceed!

Ryan’s Ride will feature a shorter course with more laps, creating extra excitement for riders and spectators alike. For families interested in registering their kids, remember: Ryan’s Ride is being held two weeks earlier than usual this year. Online registration is open through June 7.

Ryan's Ride began in 2004 as an event to honor the memory of Ryan Phua, one of John and Michele Phua’s twin sons born after John’s successful recovery from cancer. At the age of two, Ryan passed away from Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood. John and Michele created Ryan’s Ride to celebrate his life, with event proceeds supporting cancer survivorship programs through the Livestrong foundationin recognition of John beating the disease.

“Ryan’s Ride is not only in memory of the child we lost, it’s about the families and kids who have made this event their own,” said Phua. “It’s about a community that models for its children and citizens that giving back makes a difference in people’s lives. We can’t really imagine a more fitting tribute to a son and a brother.”

This year’s Master of Ceremonies and special guest is Doug Sovern, a long time reporter of KCBS Radio in San Francisco. Sovern’s young twins will be participating in Ryan’s Ride for the first time.

Sign-ups are brisk as usual, and organizers are anticipating over 500 children to pedal in this unique, non-competitive ride for kids 12 and under. Ryan’s Ride is thought to be the largest cycling event of its kind in the country and includes family fun and entertainment in quaint downtown Burlingame. Proceeds from Ryan’s Ride benefits the LIVESTRONG Foundation and the Burlingame Community for Education Foundation.

Ryan's Ride starts at 10:30 a.m. and participation is free. Each participant is a winner in the 4 years and under, 5-8 years and 9-12 years categories. Top fundraisers receive gift certificates to a local toy store or a brand new bike. Event check-in starts as early as 9 a.m. New for 2018, registration check-in will be near the Burlingame Main Library. For more information and to register, click here. The event’s success depends on volunteers and donations – please visit ryansride.org to support the event.

“We look forward to Ryan’s Ride each June, it is a great event for the whole family,” said Burlingame Mayor Michael Brownrigg. “Although our beloved Criterium is on hiatus this year, it’s a joy to continue hosting Ryan’s Ride, to celebrate Ryan’s life and give back to the community.” The City works closely with event organizers to create a terrific atmosphere and a fun, safe course for all cyclists.

Ryan’s Ride is a collaboration between Peninsula Velo Cycling Club and the Ryan Phua Memorial Fund.